Immigration reform faces Senate gauntlet, uncertain House outlook

Posted: 5/6/2013 |
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The push for immigration reform enters a crucial period when Congress returns this week, as Senate legislation faces the gauntlet of a committee mark-up and House negotiators try to complete their own long-awaited bill.

Advocates expect senators in both parties to file hundreds of amendments to the Senate's Gang of Eight immigration overhaul, and they hope the 844-page bill will emerge improved but not dismantled by the red pens of the Judiciary Committee.

Senators took their legislation on the road during the congressional recess, and the pressure of conservative opposition appeared to yield early concessions from a key backer, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who said the bill likely couldn't pass the House and may need to be changed even to clear the Senate.